An hour of yoga a day keeps high blood pressure at bay

An hour of yoga a day keeps high blood pressure at bay


More than 75 million American adults are dealing with high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. High blood pressure can result in an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.

Additionally, one in three Americans have prehypertension, defined by a systolic blood pressure between 120 and139 or a diastolic blood pressure of 80 to 89. Although most people with prehypertension are likely to develop hypertension, a new study found that a daily dose of yoga could help those patients get their physical and emotional health back on track.

The study, presented at the 68th annual conference of the Cardiological Society of India, investigated the effect of hatha yoga on the blood pressure of 60 prehypertension patients. Hatha yoga is part of Indian culture. Unlike modern yoga, it places more emphasis on breathing control and less emphasis on physical postures.

To conduct the study, the researchers placed participants in two groups. One group practiced yoga for three months in addition to making lifestyle and diet changes, while the control group only made lifestyle changes.

Results showed that the patients who practiced daily yoga had significant decreases in blood pressure. Those in the control group did not experience any significant change.

The lead author said that although the reductions appear to be small, the benefit is anything but. He explained that even a two-point drop could cut coronary heart disease risk by 6 percent.

So, are you thinking of starting yoga during 2017? Just remember: There’s no place like “om.”

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